Improvements in Device Driver Management in Windows Vista

Windows Vista addresses the challenges of the deployment of device drivers while meeting both the needs of the users and the organization’s security requirements. Windows Vista allows users to install approved device drivers without needing administrative privileges while also making it easier to find device drivers when new hardware is added. Windows Vista provides administrators the tools necessary for centrally managing and distributing device drivers. To improve device driver reliability, Windows Vista includes tools to identify the source of device driver problems, as well as a new error reporting and quality rating system will help Microsoft and device driver vendors identify and fix problems.

This tool checks your computer for infection by specific, prevalent malicious software (including Blaster, Sasser, and Mydoom) and helps to remove the infection if it is found. Microsoft will release an updated version of this tool on the second Tuesday of each month.

Download and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to see if your PC is ready for Windows 7. It scans your hardware, devices, and installed programs for known compatibility issues, gives you guidance on how to resolve potential issues found, and recommends what to do before you upgrade.